Maine Coon Breeder Los Angeles, California
American Maine Coon vs European Maine Coon: A difference in style, not in essence.
Edited by Ruoqi Lin.
April 21, 2025
The Maine Coon breed has gotten very popular in the last number of years, being recognized all over the world as the "gentle giant" of the cat world! When individuals looking for Maine Coon kittens begin their search, often they start hearing terms like "American Maine Coon" and "European Maine Coon" & some websites state that one is completely different than the other.
These terms confuse people referring to "types" of Maine Coons (just style and appearance, not genes or health). As someone that has worked with, and bred Maine Coons on both sides of the planet, I can provide a more clear, deliberate viewpoint. I hope the information provided in this article allows you to navigate the sometimes difficult world of information in your quest to determine what matters when you are looking for a maine coon kitten.
Can you tell me which of the four cats in the picture is the European Maine Coon and which is the American Maine Coon?
I know it's hard for you to tell- the first one is American, the second one is European, and isn't the third and fourth one sweethearts? They're European, too.
When we talk about Maine Coons, you may have heard statements like, “My cat is European,” or “Is your Maine Coon American or European?” These types of comments are common in the breeding community. However, once we dig a little deeper into the pedigree, one thing becomes very clear: every Maine Coon in the world ultimately traces back to the Northeastern USA, particularly the state of Maine and its surroundings.
Even if we breed a Maine Coon in Europe for five or six generations, once we go back to the 7th or 8th generation of the pedigree, it will lead to the same American ancestors. Thus, the term “European bloodline” is more about a geographical location than a genetic origin. It does not mean that the European Maine Coon is naturally anymore “wild-looking” or genetically better.
In fact, many of the so-called European Maine Coons have been imported back to the USA to breed, which provides another clear statement of truth: there is no genetic difference between American Maine Coons and European Maine Coons. From a pedigree perspective, they are essentially one and the same.
Appearance: Sweet vs. Wild - It’s All About Preference
When we talk about appearance, American Maine Coons are often referred to as "Sweet Type" - with softer facial features and gentle expressions, they have a straighter nose bridge offering a much more approachable and warm looking breed. European Maine Coons are generally referred to as "Wild Type" - they appear much more fierce, intense, with higher cheek bones, and sharper angles. But each breeder is an individual, and there are still some European breeders who choose to breed for sweet looks, and American breeders who breed for Wild looks.
However, in our opinion, this is not a matter of one being better or more "pure" than the other. They are just aesthetic choices and breeding practices within different regions. At the end of the day, they are still both Maine Coons and both adhere to the same breed standards. There is no official division between “American” and “European” bloodlines.
This is a picture that exaggerates the difference between American Maine cats and European Maine cats, and I hate it so much that it has been criticized by many breeders. Actually this picture shows an extreme type of Maine Coon on the left, and a Domestic Longhair mix on the right.
Coat Texture: Different Feel, Different Grooming Needs
Regarding the type of coat, American Maine Coons have fur that is often smoother and silkier than their European cousins, noticeably flat against the body . Because of this, they usually will shed less fur and be less prone to matting, making daily brushing a little less time-consuming for most families.
In comparison, European Maine Coons generally possess a denser coat with a thicker, cotton-like texture. Because of their thicker coat and the matting quality of the fur, they appear fluffy and fuller, but the downside is that their fur will tangle easily and require more brushing and care.
For many cat owners, the different textures and level of care is something worth considering in the purchase of an American Maine Coon or European Maine Coon kitten. If you want a coat that's easier to maintain, then the texture of an American Maine Coon is a little easier overall to maintain than European textures.
Silky Coat
Cotton Coat
Size of American and European: No Real Difference When Bred to standard
There is a misconception that European Maine Coons are usually much bigger in size. This is not true. When a cat is produced from a professional Maine Coon breeder and bred to the standards of the breed, there is no difference in body size or bone structure.
TICA and CFA, the two main cat associations, do describe Maine Coons and their size, structure, and proportions. Both associations follow what is considered to be a responsible breeding program, with a good diet and a papered pedigree, both American and European Maine Coons can become a sizeable, good-sized cats.
Health Management: A Matter of Structure and Responsibility
I’ve previously purchased and bred European-line Maine Coons, and unfortunately, that experience came with some painful lessons. Some breeders, driven by profit, deliberately concealed serious health issues—and in a few heartbreaking cases, the cats passed away from inherited diseases before reaching two years of age.
In contrast, once I transitioned into the 'American' Maine Coon breeding system, the overall situation improved significantly. Most American Maine Coon breeders prioritize health and take a proactive approach, often starting health screening programs as early as the 6th, 7th, or even 8th generation. This includes:
-
Echocardiography to screen for HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy)
-
Full genetic panel testing, including SMA, PKD, PK-def, and other known hereditary conditions
-
Kidney and hip screening, including X-rays for hip dysplasia
-
Strict spay/neuter agreements to prevent irresponsible or unauthorized breeding
While this kind of approach requires more time, effort, and cost, it provides tangible long-term protection for the health of Maine Coons—and peace of mind for families looking for a truly healthy companion.
Choosing a Kitten: Responsibility Matters More Than Labels
If you're an average pet owner simply looking for a healthy, loving Maine Coon kitten, there's really no need to stress over whether it’s “American” or “European.” Instead of focusing on those labels, it’s much more practical to tell your breeder what kind of look you prefer—“I like a sweeter expression,” or “I prefer a wilder look.”
That kind of honest conversation will get you much further than chasing the idea of a specific “bloodline.”
Whenever possible, choose a local, reputable breeder-who offers transparency, health records, and post-adoption support. Whether you're in the U.S. or elsewhere, the most important thing is to find a breeder who genuinely cares about their cats' health and well-being.
Different Styles, Same Roots — The Beauty of the Maine Coon Doesn’t Need Dividing Lines
The magic of the Maine Coon lies in its personality, structure, and that one-of-a-kind “gentle giant” vibe—not in where it was bred or what someone calls its lineage. There’s no superior bloodline between American and European Maine Coons—only different aesthetics shaped by different breeding approaches.
I hope this article helps you make a more informed, thoughtful decision when choosing your next cat. In the end, what matters isn’t where your Maine Coon came from—it’s how healthy they are, and how well they’ll fit into your life.
